Freak storm damages 20 properties, chicken pen at WCB

The aftermath of the freak storm [Picture: The Civil Defence Commission]

Some 20 properties, crops, chicken pens, and storage sheds were significantly impacted by the freak storm that ravaged the Bath Settlement area, West Coast Berbice, Region Five, between Friday night and Saturday morning.

This is according to the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), which conducted an assessment in the area.

On Saturday, the CDC said that it received reports of a freak storm over the Bath Settlement Area, and after confirmation by the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Five, an assessment team was dispatched to the location.

The team found that 1.2 miles of property were affected along a straight path heading northeast to southwest. This was coupled with 20 properties receiving damages.

“The community is primarily consisted of farmers, and as such, some crops, chicken pens, and storage sheds were also significantly impacted. One resident reported that a quantity of her baby chickens died as a result of the storm,” the CDC noted.

Residents also reported that many household appliances, furniture, mechanical, electronic, electrical equipment, clothing, school supplies, and a motorcycle suffered extensive damage.

“Zinc sheets were seen scattered sporadically in several yards, belonging to several properties throughout the area… CDC, along with the RDC, NDC, and other government agencies, will continue to monitor the situation closely.”

As a result, a quantity of food and cleaning hampers were delivered to the Regional Chairman of Region Five, which is being distributed to residents.

The Commission added that additional efforts are underway to assist those persons impacted by the storm, and they can begin to receive replacement sheets as soon as Monday.

Another house that was destroyed by the freak storm [Picture: Civil Defence Commission]

Meanwhile, through the Ministry of Agriculture, the Hydrometeorological Office has advised all residents countrywide to brace for consistent rainfall as the rainy season is in full effect.

Between 30mm (1.1 inches) and 70mm (2.7 inches) of rainfall is expected over the next twenty-four (24) hours. Persons are urged to contact their local authorities if they are impacted in any way or the National Emergency Monitoring System (NEMS) at 600-7500 or 226-1114 at any time.